Two of the top questions Americans ask when purchasing flowers are "How do I take
care of them?" and "How long will they last?" Whether it's a single
bud, a small bunch or an abundant arrangement, a little extra care can make a
big difference.

Most floral arrangements last between 4-7 days, depending on the types of flowers
used and the type of care they receive. The Society of American Florists
suggests these tips for longer-lasting, more vibrant flowers:

For floral arrangements
Keep the vase filled or floral foam soaked with water containing a flower food
provided by your florist.

If the flower food solution
becomes cloudy, replace it entirely. If possible, recut stems by removing one to
two inches with a sharp knife.

Keep flowers in a cool spot (65
to 72 degrees Fahrenheit), away from direct sunlight, heating or cooling vents,
directly under ceiling fans, or on top of televisions or radiators. (Appliances
like televisions give off heat, causing flowers to dehydrate.)

For loose bunches or boxed flowers
If you can't get your
flowers in a flower food solution right away, keep them in a cool place.

Fill a clean, deep vase with
water and add the flower food obtained from your florist. Be sure to follow the
directions on the package.

Remove leaves that will be
below the waterline. Leaves in water will promote bacterial growth.

Recut stems with a sharp knife.
Do this underwater -- this allows the stems to draw in water instead of air --
and place the flowers in the vase solution you've prepared.

If you purchase loose flowers
for your own arrangements you should also consider these tips:

When selecting flowers, look for flowers
with upright, firm petals and buds beginning to open. Yellow, spotted or
drooping leaves are signs of age.

When using woody stems and branches (such
as quince, forsythia or lilac), cut the stem with sharp pruning shears.
Place in warm water containing fresh flower food to promote flower opening.

CUT ROSES:
Roses must be in water within 1 hour.
Water tubes when placed on the stem will provide adequate water for 5-6 hours in
a cool spot
Keep roses cool before...and after...arranging. Do not refrigerate.
Roses are heavy drinkers be sure to check your vase frequently

ARRANGEMENTS:
Use clean, deep container.
Wash your vase with soap and water before arranging your roses
Add water with floral preservative upon receipt and refill daily to keep vase
full.
1 Package of flower food per pint of water, less flower food is better.
Remove leaves that will be underwater.
Display in cool area away from drafts and direct sun.
Keep roses away from any fruit or vegetables, especially apples.
Our roses should last 5-7 days, sometimes lasting 10-14 days.

IF A ROSE SHOULD WILT (steps for reviving):
Remove from arrangement.
Submerge the stem under water. Cut off 1 " or more using a sharp knife.
It should revive.
ABOUT YOUR WATER -- Avoid if possible use of water from a home or commercial
water softener.